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Advice Needed on Where: Family trip for Christmas 2010

My husband and I want to take my sister and her family on a seven-night trip next Christmas. We all decided we'd rather make memories than waste money on more stuff we don't need. There will be a total of eight people (two adult couples and four kids: three girls ages 13, 17, 19; one boy age 17). The kids have never been out of the U.S. and they all have taken/are taking Spanish. The adults are pretty fluent. Here's what we are looking for--can you please help us figure out WHERE to go?

-Tropical climate outside the U.S.; we prefer a Spanish speaking country if possible, but it's not a dealbreaker.
-Direct flight from Washington, DC, (Dulles or BWI) no longer than four hours.
-Condos or a villa with at least four bedrooms total. Our housing budget is maximum $5,000 (about $714 per night or $625 per person).
-Maid service
-Access to a beach and the ocean; pool/jacuzzi access preferred as well.
-Some type of historic or cultural activities; things for kids to do at night.
-We are flexible on dates, but can leave as early as December 17 and return as late as January 2.

Several people have suggested Playa del Carmen and I see there is a lively group of folks on Fodor's Forum who are fans. Another suggestion we received was Casa de Campo in the DR, but all the flights look difficult/long/expensive, which is a drag with eight people.

I would suggest posting to the Mexico / CA board as you might get some really good ideas there. We took a family trip with kids aged 1 to 16 several years ago and went to St. Croix - rented a house and loved it! But not a Spanish speaking place. I'd suggest vbor.com for rental properties, but as far as which location you could get better advice on one of the more specific boards. Have fun - sounds like you'll have a great time wherever you go!